ANIMA

The fabulous Swedish outfit is back! I was seduced by their second opus, "Elements" (2011). "Anima" is another tour de force. You'll find great song writing, arrangements, musicianship and production as before. It starts with Matts Bender on keyboards who plays his instruments with such power and resourcefulness. As in the previous opus, the keyboards are the dominant instruments here. But Par Helje does a great job on the guitars, with some gorgeous Hackett-like solos. And Anna Bender's (Matts' wife) crystal clear vocals and poetic lyrics just add emotion to the blend. I forget Matts and Anna's children on drums and backing vocals! No, this is not a family business as you may say but rather a labour of love! Three of the 9 tracks exceed 10 minutes in duration and there is not a weak track on the whole album. As I said, "Anima" is powerful and emotional on the same time, enlightened by lush melodies and instrumental passages. Everything you could want from modern symphonic and neo prog is here. I think like "Elements", "Anima" will be at the top of my 2014 best albums list. Fans of Magenta, hurry! Highly recommended.